Attempted sexual assault in Bournemouth

Detectives are appealing for witnesses and anyone with any information to come forward following an attempted sexual assault in Bournemouth.

The incident happened along a footpath on heathland between St Brelades Avenue and Scott Road around 3.30pm on Thursday 5 March.

A teenage girl was approached by a man, who grabbed hold of her and threatened her with a knife, but she managed to escape. She was uninjured in the incident.

The offender is described as in his early 20s, of average build, and unshaven. He had very short cropped brown hair and was wearing black tracksuit bottoms and white trainers.

Detective Constable Tim Davis, of Bournemouth CID, said: “This was obviously a very frightening ordeal for the girl and I am keen on speaking to any potential witnesses who may have seen the incident or a suspicious man running away in the area at the time. Anyone with information can speak to me, in confidence, on 101.”

Witnesses and anyone with information should call Dorset Police in confidence on 101 quoting incident number 5:259. Alternatively, call the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111 where mobile phone tariffs may apply.